What is SARS?

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a viral infection affecting all age groups. Scientists believe the virus is a mutation of corona virus, the virus family that causes the common cold. The most serious cases reported have been found in patients already suffering from some sort of chronic condition. The syndrome is suspected to have originated in Guandong, China. The most serious implication of SARS is the development of atypical pneumonia in patients.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms begin with a fever of more than 100.4 F., sometimes accompanied by chills, headache and severe muscle and joint pain. Two to seven days afterwards, patients may develop a cough, nasal congestion, and/or sneezing. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, difficulty in breathing (similar to asthma) and pneumonia.  

How does SARS spread and who is most at risk?

According to current knowledge, people infected with SARS are not contagious during the incubation period. Howver, once coughing/sneezing begins, the germ apparently travels on the resulting tiny droplets of fluid spewed into the air. Any visitors or residents of certain parts of Asia, and people who've had direct close contact with an infected person, like health care workers and those sharing a household with a SARS patient, are most at risk.  

How can I avoid SARS?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that all non-essential trips to mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Hanoi, Vietnam be postponed. The CDC has not yet recommended that travelers avoid Canada, though several cases have been reported there.  

What should I do if I am showing symptoms?

Call your doctor if you have a fever of more than 100.4 F. and develop a cough or have difficulty breathing. You should be sure to tell your physician about any recent travel to regions where SARS has been reported and whether you were in close contact with an infected SARS patient.  

What diagnostic tools and/or treatments are available for SARS?

A diagnostic test is in development and U.S. health officials have said that none of the antiviral drugs and other treatments they have tested are effective against SARS.  

Source: CDC Fact Sheet